Ryan's Irish Pub is the third and last Irish bar on Decatur Street (counting Molly's at the Market and, close by, Kerry Irish Pub) on a stretch that makes for a promising set of stop-offs during the St. Patrick's Day parades that make their way through the French Quarter.

While a banner boasts (in colorful language) Ryan's spot as the best Irish bar in the world, one could make the case that, at the very least, it's one of the Quarter's favored spots for watching NHL games on TV. Eight flatscreens are spaced out conveniently throughout the cozy but open space, and Abita dominates the tap selection of 10 beers.

The pub draws a mix of regulars and tourists. The bartenders are known to pour a soul-warming Irish coffee, complete with Jameson. The jukebox has a distinctly punk- and indie-rock vibe to it.

Tip: While Abita dominates the tap selection, be sure to sample the award-winning Stone IPA out of San Diego, Calif.

Location: 241 Decatur St., 504.523.3500

Open: Daily. Parking: Street.

Prices: Beer, $2.25-$3.75; wine, $4.75; cocktails, $4-$14.

Crowd: French Quarter residents, service-industry workers, and cooler tourists who make the bar a regular stop on each trip to New Orleans.